Zakynthos: Shipwreck Beach by Land & Sea Blue Caves Day Tour

Zakynthos: Shipwreck Beach by Land & Sea Blue Caves Day Tour — An Affordable Adventure Exploring Iconic Landmarks

This cost-effective tour costs just $30 per person and offers a full-day adventure lasting 6 to 8 hours, making it a great choice for travelers looking to see Zakynthos’ most famous sights without overspending. Starting with hotel pickup in a comfortable air-conditioned minibus, the tour covers key landmarks like Bohali hill, Makris Gialos beach, and the ancient olive tree in Exo Chora. The highlight is a speedboat trip to Navagio Shipwreck beach and the Blue Caves, with weather conditions potentially affecting the boat portion. The tour includes ground and aerial photography, a guide, and a bottle of water, ensuring a smooth and informative experience.

While boat fees of €25 per person are not included, this tour offers a solid balance of sightseeing, swimming, and photo opportunities. It’s primarily suited for those who want a comprehensive day that combines land-based viewpoints with marine exploration, especially those eager to capture stunning photos of Zakynthos’ most famous sights. The small group sizes and private options provide flexibility and a more personalized experience.

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Key Points

• Affordable Price: The tour costs only $30 per person, with optional boat charges paid on the day.
• Duration & Timing: Lasts 6 to 8 hours, with flexible start times based on pickup locations.
• Land & Sea Experience: Combines minibus sightseeing of viewpoints and beaches with speedboat trips to Navagio Beach and Blue Caves.
• Guided Tour: Led by a local English-speaking guide who shares insights about each stop.
• Key Stops & Highlights: Includes Bohali hill, Makris Gialos beach, Xygia natural spa, and the 2,000-year-old olive tree.
• Weather Considerations: Boat trips depend on weather, with safety adjustments made by the captain if needed.

Starting From Your Accommodation in Zakynthos

The tour begins with hotel pickup from several locations such as Zakynthos Town, Laganas, Kalamaki, Argassi, Vasilikos, Xirocastello, Tsilivi, Varres, and Alykes, typically between 7:30 am and 10:30 am. The air-conditioned minibus transports guests comfortably to the first stops, with the guide explaining the plan for the day.

Pickup times vary depending on the location, ensuring an easy start for all participants. For accommodations more than 13 km from Zakynthos city, there may be an extra fee of around €15, but the convenience of door-to-door service makes it worthwhile.

Exploring the Northeast: Xygia Beach and Makris Gialos

The first land stop is Xygia Beach, known as a natural spa beach with sulfur and collagen that has healing properties. The swimming experience here is a highlight, as the water’s natural minerals provide a relaxing break. Travelers appreciate the chance to bathe in mineral-rich waters and take in the peaceful surroundings.

Next, the tour pauses at Makris Gialos Beach for photos of its rugged rocky shoreline. This spot is perfect for capturing stunning images of Zakynthos’ coast and enjoying some leisure time before heading towards the boat trip.

Panoramic Views from Bohali Hill

A key feature of this tour is a visit to Bohali’s panoramic viewpoint. Here, the guide shares insights on the island’s landscape while visitors take in spectacular views over Zakynthos town and the coast. This stop provides a great photo opportunity and a chance to appreciate the island’s vast scenery.

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The Ancient Olive Tree in Exo Chora

One of the tour’s unique highlights is seeing an olive tree over 2,000 years old in Exo Chora. The town itself offers a charming glimpse into local history, with cobbled streets and traditional architecture. Visitors find this stop especially interesting for its historic significance and the chance to capture photos of this ancient plant.

The Speedboat to Navagio Shipwreck and Blue Caves

After the land stops, the tour moves to the harbor, where guests board a comfortable speedboat. The boat ride takes you to Navagio Shipwreck beach, where you can walk on the golden sands and take memorable photos with the shipwreck backdrop.

The Blue Caves are next, where visitors can swim inside the caves, marvel at the electric blue water, and peer through the glass-bottom for a glimpse of the marine life beneath. The weather-dependent nature of this part of the tour means that if conditions are windy, the captain will adjust the itinerary to ensure safety, possibly limiting the boat activity.

Lunch and Relaxation Before the Viewpoint

Following the boat trip, guests have the opportunity to purchase lunch at local taverns, enjoying authentic Greek cuisine. After eating, a visit to the panoramic view above Navagio Beach offers a breathtaking perspective of the famous shipwreck and surrounding cliffs.

The 2000-Year-Old Olive Tree in Exo Chora

Before returning to the hotel, the tour visits Exo Chora, where the ancient olive tree stands as a symbol of the island’s long history. The charming town provides a peaceful setting and a chance to reflect on Zakynthos’ timeless beauty.

Practical Details & Photo Opportunities

Throughout the tour, ground and aerial photography are included, allowing travelers to capture stunning images of the shipwreck, caves, beaches, and panoramic views. The guide’s expertise ensures that visitors get the best shots, whether on land or from the air.

Guests are advised to bring sunscreen, hiking shoes, and a towel for swimming. Toilets are available at cafes, restaurants, and on the boat, accommodating comfort during the day.

Weather and Safety Considerations

The landmarks like Bohali viewpoint, Xygia Beach, and Makris Gialos are accessible regardless of weather. However, the boat ride to Navagio and the Blue Caves depends on sea conditions. If the weather is windy, the captain may modify the boat route or reschedule to ensure safety.

In the off-season (November to April), only private and semi-private tours operate, with boat restrictions in place. For last-minute bookings, refunds are available 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This well-rounded tour is perfect for travelers seeking a full day of sightseeing with a mix of landscapes, swimming, and photo stops. It suits those who appreciate stunning viewpoints and are comfortable with some physical activity, such as walking on cobbled streets and swimming. The small group and private options make it ideal for families, couples, or small groups wanting a more personalized experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, ground transportation, a local English-speaking guide, ground and aerial photography, and swimming support equipment. A bottle of water is also provided.

Are meals included?
No, lunch and drinks are not included, but guests can purchase lunch at local taverns after the boat ride.

How much are the boat fees?
The boat fees to access Navagio Beach and Blue Caves are €25 per person and paid on the day.

What stops are weather-dependent?
The boat trip to Navagio Shipwreck and Blue Caves is weather-dependent; safety adjustments may be made if sea conditions are windy.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts 6 to 8 hours, depending on conditions and the pace of stops.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, sunscreen, and hiking shoes for walking and swimming activities.

Is there an option for private groups?
Yes, private group options are available, allowing for a more customized experience.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What is the start time?
Start times vary based on pickup location, typically between 8:00 am and 10:30 am.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While specific age restrictions are not listed, the activity involves walking, swimming, and boat rides, so it is best suited for children comfortable with these activities.

How accessible is the tour?
The tour involves walking on uneven surfaces at viewpoints and swimming, so it may require moderate physical activity.

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